Governments in Enugu, Ebonyi, and Anambra states have teamed up with NEMA to prevent floods this rainy season.

They’ve warned that blocked drains will no longer be allowed.

“We’re not waiting for floods to hit before acting,” said Mrs. Ngozi Echeazu, Head of NEMA Operations in Enugu.

NEMA started early sensitisation after NIMET warned that 30 states, including many in the South-East, could face heavy rains and flooding this year.

Echeazu said NEMA had written to local governments and state agencies, asking them to get ready.

“We’ve visited markets in Enugu to talk to traders and locals about not dumping trash in drains,” she said.

They also teamed up with Enugu SEMA and local emergency committees for public awareness.

“We’re using the NYSC-NEMA Vanguard to reach schools and playgrounds. Kids often take out the family trash, so we want them involved,” Echeazu explained.

But full campaigns haven’t started.

“We’re still waiting for support from our headquarters. For now, we’re focusing on Enugu,” she said.

Operation Clear Drains Launched in Anambra

In Anambra, Environment Commissioner Dr. Felix Odimegwu said the state has launched “Operation Clear Your Waterways.”

He said the campaign is clearing blocked drains in communities before the rains begin.

“We’ve started enforcement. It’s based on public health and environmental laws,” Odimegwu explained.

He said the effort aligns with Governor Charles Soludo’s plan to make Anambra a smart mega city.

“To prevent floods, we’re enforcing a zero-tolerance rule on blocked drains,” he added.

He warned that residents who leave silted-up waste around their homes will face legal action.

Ebonyi Battles Flood from Abandoned Dam

In Ebonyi, SEMA said the abandoned Ivo dam is the major reason Anor Community suffers floods every year.

“A collapsed section of the uncompleted dam overflows during rains and floods nearby villages,” said Mr. Clement Ovuoba, SEMA Executive Secretary.

He said merging rivers enter the dam and spill out due to the damage.

“Ngwongwo, Okwe, and Amokwe have suffered for years,” he added.

Ovuoba asked the Federal Government to complete the dam to reduce the yearly destruction.

He praised NEWMAP for drainage work in the state capital but said more needs to be done, especially on the Ebonyi River.

Ebonyi SEMA is also reactivating flood response systems.

“We’ve started town hall meetings and sent out jingles and public lectures,” he said.

He urged people in flood-prone areas to stay away from waterways and clean their drains.

“We’ve reached communities in Ivo, Ikwo, Izzi, Abakaliki, and Afikpo North,” he added.

Temporary IDP camps have been set up in 13 LGAs.

“They’re mostly schools and churches. They can house up to 2,000 people if needed,” Ovuoba said.

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